VIDEO: Human remains believed to be missing man Mark Manning

James Butler

Human remains discovered on Hampshire Hill in Slaugham are believed to be those of missing Lancing man Mark Manning.

A police statement said that a 50-year-old Portslade man has been charged on suspicion of perverting the course of justice and prevention of a lawful burial in connection with the murder of missing Lancing man Mark Manning.

An aerial shot of Hampshire Hill in Slaugham, West Sussex, where human remains which police believe are Mark Manning have been discovered. Picture: Eddie Mitchell

A force spokesperson said: “Human remains, which are unidentified at this stage, but believed to be those of Mark, have been discovered on land near Slaugham on Wednesday (25 May).

“Officers from the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team detained the man. He is in custody being questioned.

“Mark, 54, of Brighton Road, was last seen on 19 April 2014 before his family reported him missing on 22 April. They said it was completely out of character for him to disappear.

“Officers launched a murder investigation in June 2014. Despite extensive proof of life enquiries and searches, no one reported hearing from or seeing Mark.

Forensics teams at the site where human remains have been found on Hampshire Hill in Slaugham. Picture: Eddie Mitchell

“Colin Gale, 39, of Offington Lane, Worthing, was charged with the murder of Mark Manning in January this year. He is due to stand trial on 4 July at Lewes Crown Court”.

Detective Superintendent Mike Ashcroft, head of the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team said: “We are supporting the family of Mark at this very difficult time. They ask that they be left alone to grieve in peace. Our enquiries are continuing.”

To read a timeline of events since Mr Manning’s disappearance, click here.

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Forensics teams at the site where human remains have been found on Hampshire Hill in Slaugham. Picture: Eddie Mitchell

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